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Ministers have ordered Basildon Council to accelerate its long-delayed Local Plan, prompting fierce debate over housing, local democracy and the protection of green spaces. While some believe intervention had become inevitable, many residents fear thousands of homes could be built before roads, schools and health services are ready.

Green Party campaigner Simon Gittus, who stood in West Leigh at the recent local elections, is calling for tougher action against private equity firms after Southend City Council confirmed that companies operated by Modella Capital owe more than £200,000 in business rates and other liabilities.

The Southend Food and Drink Festival is returning in 2026 following a successful debut, with organisers planning even more participating venues, exclusive offers and prizes as they celebrate the city’s thriving hospitality scene.

Nearly 100 days after taking office, Southend-on-Sea City Council’s Joint Administration says it is making progress across its key priorities, including new council homes, regeneration projects, road investment, environmental improvements and measures to improve community safety and council services.

The first sections of Southend’s huge new underground flood tanks have arrived on site as the Better Queensway project reaches a major milestone. The 750,000-litre flood defence system will help protect seafront businesses, reduce flood risk and support future regeneration.

Mount Bovers housing development was refused due to concerns over drainage, healthcare, and infrastructure capacity. Over 7,000 objections highlight public opposition, raising broader questions about managing growth and protecting South Essex’s countryside.

A Southend family has suffered two severe sewage floods at home, highlighting wider sewage system failures risking public health and the environment. Calls for urgent investment and accountability in wastewater infrastructure are growing.

The Government plans to merge Essex Police into larger regional forces, risking reduced local accountability and poorer crime outcomes. Experience from Scotland warns of such mergers’ harms. Locally tailored policing and investment in resources are essential for Southend’s safety.

Reflecting on the bravery of airborne forces during D-Day and commemorative jumps, this article honours the courage, sacrifice and impact of those who fought to liberate Europe in 1944 and beyond.

Southend-on-Sea City Council has announced changes to this year’s Armed Forces Day event due to forecast temperatures of up to 32°C. While the planned High Street parade has been cancelled, a shortened Service of Thanksgiving will still take place at Victoria Plaza, allowing the community to honour the Armed Forces safely.